We Shine Brighter Together at RTR…

Combining over 110 years of Reform Judaism in Rockland County, Temple Beth El (Spring Valley) and Temple Beth Torah (Nyack) merged to create an even brighter entity, The Reform Temple of Rockland (RTR). Everyone comes together here – interfaith couples, LGBTQ families, the young and the not-so-young – to create our warm Jewish community. Our Worship is enriched with a love of music, filled with our gifted Cantor’s voice, our choir, and our Chai Life Rock Shabbat band. Toe tapping and hand clapping are encouraged! See for yourself why so many find our family-friendly Friday night services or educational programming so inspiring, or why our B’nei Mitzvah are just beginning their journeys, not ending them. Each of us is a Jewish light but together, we all shine brighter. Don’t wait for a holiday to drop by. Our caring clergy and congregation look forward to meeting you!

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Israel Resources

From the Union For Reform Judaism / Reform Movement

Teens Leading Change: The Power of NFTY on Fostering an Innovative Spirit

Teens Leading Change: The Power of NFTY on Fostering an Innovative Spirit jemerman December 4, 2024

teens

Photo of a hand writing a voter postcard

NFTY has long been a catalyst for teen leadership and social change. Two remarkable teens, Maccabee Anderson and Lucy Targum, embody the innovative spirit and commitment to being the change they wish to see in the Jewish world and beyond.

Jewish Stories to Curl Up with This Winter

Jewish Stories to Curl Up with This Winter jemerman November 21, 2024

books

Photo of a book with a cup of coffee and a pastry sitting on a table

A truly cozy read, in my opinion, is defined by its ability to keep me present. As the definition of cozy reading is subjective, I've compiled a list of Jewish cozy reads spanning a few genres. Wrap yourself up in your favorite blanket, turn the kettle on, and let's get started.

10 Yiddish Words and Phrases to Love

10 Yiddish Words and Phrases to Love jemerman November 21, 2024

Yiddish

Photo of a group of people of different genders and nationality sitting around a table and talking

In recent years, Yiddish has experienced a remarkable resurgence. Whether you're reconnecting with your heritage or exploring linguistic quirks, Yiddish offers rich expressions to spice up conversations. Here are 10 phrases you should know and use to participate in the Yiddish resurgence.

For Some of Us the Holidays Are Just…Hard

For Some of Us the Holidays Are Just…Hard jemerman November 18, 2024

Death and Mourning

As we head into the holiday season, I am acutely aware of how much different this year is going to be than previous ones. I will be celebrating without my mom for the first time. My mother died in January 2021, and I'm still dealing with the unexpected waves of grief that wash over me, sometimes out of nowhere. As I head into this first winter holiday season without her, I'm not quite sure I know what to expect, other than everything is going to be very different.